Apple competes with Google when it comes to smartphones and other consumer electronic products. However, Cupertino has jumped ahead with CarPlay on the 2019 Lexus ES.
The entry-level luxury sedan was recently unveiled at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show and at the expo held in Los Angeles. Based on the details provided by the manufacturer, the 2019 model sports a wider, longer, and lower dimension than its predecessor. Most of the changes made for the upcoming vehicle were supposedly upgrades to its chassis, technology, and more.
A Solid Foundation
According to the carmaker, the vehicle comes with the company's latest global architecture, which it shares in common with the 2019 Toyota Avalon. It relies on the manufacturer's latest GA-K platform specially designed for front-wheel drive systems. A careful measure confirms that it is now 0.2 inch lower, 2.6 inches longer, and 1.8 inches wider than the older model.
Passengers reportedly gain better legroom thanks to its wheelbase, which is apparently two inches longer. The entire package retains the iconic look of the brand, along with the large spindle grille like the brand's latest sedan entries.
Next-Generation Connectivity And Entertainment
Industry experts noted that the 2019 Lexus ES is the first one from the brand to come with Apple CarPlay technology built in for its infotainment system. Toyota likewise recently added the feature to its latest Corolla Hatchback and Avalon. Moreover, just like the latter brand, the ES series will soon bulk up its modern functionality with the integration of Amazon Alexa.
The vehicle's standard entertainment package includes a unit that comes with an 8-inch display, which is controlled via Lexus' Remote Touch Interface system. Meanwhile, buyers can grab one with an optional 12.3-inch infotainment package that comes with Wi-Fi connectivity courtesy of Verizon and controlled the same way as the regular option.
Trims And Safety Features
There are a total of three trims available for the new sedan. The 350S depends on a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It is capable of a 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque output.
An F Sport option for the 350 is likewise being offered, which comes with all the bells and whistles of the standard trim. What makes it stand out is the inclusion of the FC coupe's Adaptive Variable Suspension system.
The 300h as the name implies refers to the hybrid model wherein Toyota's fourth-generation drive system draws the highlight. It holds a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle 14 engine paired with an electric motor. Both generate a total of 215 horsepower with an estimated 44 mpg fuel efficiency.
For safety, the entire 2019 Lexus ES lineup includes the brand's Safety System+ 2.0 with an improved collision-detection system that can likewise detect cyclists in daytime scenarios. The radar system was reportedly tweaked to enhance pedestrian detection. It seems like Apple CarPlay is not the only notable piece of tech that comes standard with the package.
